Read an Interesting History of El Tropicano Hotel in San Antonio

In August of 1962, El Tropicano Riverwalk Hotel opened its doors and what a glorious hotel it was. Having the distinction of being the first hotel built on the beautiful, historic San Antonio River, El Tropicano Motor Hotel – as it was known then – was the local headquarters for visiting presidents and movie stars. Named the “Texas Whitehouse” when President Johnson was in office, El Tropicano served as a second home for the first family. The White House press corps held their briefings here daily, bringing illustrious guests to the property, including Dr. Christiaan Barnard, the first surgeon to perform a heart transplant on a human being.

Stars who have stayed at El Tropicano over the years include Rock Hudson, Danny Thomas, Tony Bennett, Jonathan Winters, Harry Morgan, George Hamilton, Dolly Parton, and the Rolling Stones. When the films Viva Max and The Americanization of Emily with Julie Andrews were being filmed on location in San Antonio, the cast and crew stayed at El Tropicano.

From the open air lobby with its meandering stream that ran the length of the first floor to the colorful Fontana Club that featured two bright pink live flamingos as its mascots, El Trop became the happening place. Everybody wanted to be here dining and dancing and enjoying the irresistible atmosphere. Many San Antonio families have fond memories of their weddings, proms, quinceaneras, honeymoons, and other special events that have taken place at this grand hotel.

And now, El Tropicano is back, with its familiar name and trademark philodendron leaf. Our doors are open to all of San Antonio and visitors alike as you take the opportunity to see this iconic hotel – a tribute to the original but with a modern, tropical, Latin flair. Visit El Tropicano and relive the sights, sounds, and nostalgic memories that El Tropicano will awaken in you.